Bill would require students to use bathroom of birth sex

Published 3:35 pm, Tuesday, March 15, 2016

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — A bill that would require transgender students to use bathrooms that match their sex at birth is gaining momentum in the Tennessee legislature after passing in a House subcommittee.

The bill is advancing despite opposition from the state's Republican governor, Bill Haslam. Conservatives have pushed the legislation, which is sponsored by Rep. Susan Lynn of Old Hickory and Sen. Mike Bell of Riceville, both Republicans.

Last month South Dakota became the only state to pass a bill that would require transgender students to use bathrooms that correspond to their sex at birth. However, Republican Gov. Dennis Daugaard vetoed the legislation.

Tennessee's bill would require transgender students at public grade schools and universities to use restrooms and locker rooms that match their sex on their birth certificate.